Master's Programs in the Netherlands for International Students
- Advantages of Studying Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Formats and Levels of Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Top Universities for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- How to Apply for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Documents Required for Applying to Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Language of Instruction and Preparation for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Tuition Fee for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Scholarships and Grants for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Career Prospects After Master's in the Netherlands
- Frequently Asked Questions
Master of Business Management - Cyber Security in Business
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesCyber security is a Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences MSc concentration. The programme accepts full-time and part-time "tech" students from the Netherlands and other countries. This all-English curriculum teaches students about companies and the job market.
In this specialization,…
Master of Business Management - Engineering
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesEngineering drives creativity and sustainability in many fields despite rapid technology advances and global issues. Wittenborg offers an MBM/MSc in Business and Management with an Engineering specialization to meet the need for strong technical and strategic leaders. This course is for future engineers…
Master of Business Management - Nursing
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesIn a time of unprecedented healthcare demands, strategic business management and advanced nursing techniques are becoming increasingly vital. In recognition, Wittenborg offers an MBM/MSc with a nursing emphasis. This programme is for healthcare professionals who desire to combine clinical experience…
Master of Business Management - Applied ICT
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur Applied ICT MBM combines technical ICT competence with business management training. This integration prepares students to deploy and manage cutting-edge ICT systems in worldwide businesses. The English-taught program attracts a diverse student body and creates a dynamic learning environment that…
Master of Business Management - Data Analytics
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur MBM in Data Analytics combines advanced analytical methodologies with business management principles to prepare students for data science leadership. This curriculum, taught in English and with a diverse student body from throughout the world, provides a rich learning environment that reflects…
Master of Business Management - Clean Tech
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur MBM in Clean Tech combines a deep understanding of clean technology and sustainable practices with strict business and management principles. The English-taught curriculum attracts students from around the world, producing a dynamic, multicultural learning environment that reflects global clean…
Master of Business Management - Digital Transformation
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesOur MBM in Digital Transformation combines cutting-edge digital technologies with deep business management knowledge. This unique mix helps students lead and manage valuable digital projects that give them an edge. The English-taught curriculum attracts a diverse group of international students with…
Master of Business Management - Smart Industry
Wittenborg University of Applied SciencesSmart Industry MBM carefully blends cutting-edge digital technologies and industrial systems with basic business management concepts. This innovative program blends theoretical knowledge with practical practice and welcomes international students. Only English is taught.
Curriculum covers…
Advantages of Studying Master's Programs in the Netherlands
Education in the Netherlands offers a unique combination of high-quality academic preparation, practice-oriented approaches, and an international environment. Master's programs in this country are open to international students and attract thousands of young people from around the world every year.
Main advantages:
- Recognized diploma. Dutch universities rank among the world's leading institutions (QS, THE), and their diplomas are recognized in EU countries, CIS, and other regions.
- English-taught programs. Over 1,600 master's programs are available entirely in English, eliminating the need to learn Dutch.
- Business integration. Many programs include internships, collaborative projects with companies, and practical case studies.
- Job search year. After completing a master's degree, graduates are granted the right to an "Orientation Year" — 12 months of residence in the country for employment.
- Competitive cost. Tuition and living expenses are lower than in the UK, Canada, or the US.
- International community. Universities host students from over 150 countries, creating a multicultural academic environment.
Formats and Levels of Master's Programs in the Netherlands
The Dutch higher education system includes two main types of master's programs:
- HBO (Hoger Beroepsonderwijs) — applied master's:
- Duration: 1—2 years
- Focus: professional skills, career preparation
- Suitable for students with an applied bachelor's degree or work experience
- Often includes internships, teamwork, real business cases, and preparation for the job market
- WO (Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs) — academic master's:
- Duration: 1—2 years
- Focus: scientific research, analytics, academic career
- Often serves as a step before entering a PhD program
- Requires writing a research master's thesis
Both formats provide internationally recognized diplomas and employment opportunities in EU countries.
Top Universities for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
| University | Program | Tuition Fee (per year) | QS Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delft University of Technology | Computer Science | €18,750 | 47 |
| University of Amsterdam | Economics | €14,500 | 55 |
| Utrecht University | Sustainable Development | €15,300 | 107 |
| Erasmus University Rotterdam | Business Analytics & Management | €15,000 | 99 |
| Leiden University | International Relations | €13,800 | 126 |
How to Apply for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
Applying for a master's program involves the following steps:
- Choose a program and university.
- Register on the Studielink.nl portal.
- Submit an application through the chosen university's website.
- Prepare and upload required documents.
- Complete an interview or entrance assignment (if required).
- Receive a letter of admission.
- Apply for a visa and obtain health insurance.
It is recommended to start the process 8—10 months before the beginning of studies. Note that some programs have limited enrollment and operate on a competitive basis (numerus fixus).
Documents Required for Applying to Master's Programs in the Netherlands
The following documents are required for application:
- Bachelor's diploma with academic transcript
- Language test results: IELTS (from 6.5), TOEFL iBT (from 90), Duolingo
- Motivation letter (500—1,000 words)
- Academic resume (CV)
- 1—2 recommendation letters
- Copy of passport with sufficient validity
- Portfolio (for creative fields)
- Sometimes: GMAT or GRE (for business and technical programs)
- Most recent digital photo
All documents except the passport must be translated into English and notarized.
Language of Instruction and Preparation for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
- Main language of instruction: English.
- Dutch language is not required for admission or studies.
- Pre-Master programs — preparatory courses for those with:
- HBO diploma
- Partial mismatch with academic requirements
- Insufficient English level
Pre-Master duration: 3 to 12 months. Some universities, such as Tilburg University or Maastricht University, offer Pre-Master programs with special adaptation for international students.
Tuition Fee for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
| Expense Item | Range |
|---|---|
| Tuition (HBO) | €8,000 — €13,000 per year |
| Tuition (WO) | €12,000 — €20,000 per year |
| Accommodation | €500 — €900 per month |
| Food | €250 — €450 per month |
| Transportation | €40 — €70 per month |
| Health insurance | €50 — €100 per month |
| Other expenses | €100 — €300 per month |
Minimum bank balance for student visa: €13,400 (for 2025). Students must also provide a rental agreement and proof of health insurance.
Scholarships and Grants for Master's Programs in the Netherlands
International students can apply for financial support:
- Holland Scholarship
- Amount: €5,000 (one-time payment)
- Criteria: high academic performance, non-EU citizenship
- Application period: March to May
- Orange Tulip Scholarship (OTS)
- For students from CIS countries and India
- Coverage: 30% to 100% of tuition fee
- Applications can be submitted through the official Nuffic coordinator in the student's home country
- University grants (VU Fellowship, University of Twente Scholarship, etc.)
- Requirements: high GPA, motivation letter, recommendations
- Competition is intense, but chances increase with early application
Career Prospects After Master's in the Netherlands
A master's degree in the Netherlands provides graduates with significant competitive advantages:
- Orientation Year: graduates can stay in the country for one year without changing their visa status to search for jobs. During this period, they can work any job without permission from IND.
- Internships are included in many programs — especially in IT, economics, medicine, and engineering.
- In-demand specialties:
- Data Science, information technology
- Finance and banking
- Green technologies and sustainable development
- Biomedical sciences
- International relations
- Logistics and supply chain management
- Major employers: ING, ASML, Philips, Heineken, Rabobank, Shell, Booking.com, Unilever, Accenture
- Further education: graduates can apply for PhD programs in the Netherlands or other EU countries. A master's degree facilitates obtaining permanent residence or citizenship. After 5 years of legal residence (including study and work), one can apply for permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for a master's program in the Netherlands with a bachelor's degree from a CIS country?
Yes. The main requirements are a diploma, proof of English proficiency, and meeting academic criteria. - Is Dutch language mandatory for master's studies in the Netherlands?
No. Most master's programs are conducted entirely in English. - How to prove language proficiency for master's programs in the Netherlands?
Through international exams: IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo. Score requirements vary by program. - What are the application deadlines for master's programs in the Netherlands?
Typically — until April 1. For scholarships — earlier: until January 15 or March 1. - Can I stay in the Netherlands after completing a master's degree?
Yes. The Orientation Year grants legal rights to live and seek employment in the country. - How much money is required for a Dutch student visa?
Minimum €13,400 for the first year of study and living expenses. - Can I work while studying for a master's degree in the Netherlands?
Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during summer vacations. The employer must obtain a work permit. - How difficult is it to find a job after a master's degree in the Netherlands?
Employment rates are high, especially in technical and business fields. Success depends on English proficiency, internship experience, and job search activity.